Summer fun is just ahead!!!

With Memorial Day weekend behind us, summer-fun planning has kicked into high gear just in time for the release of our printed calender of events!

This guide to music, crafts, events, festivals, fair food, and just plain fun is available at our tourist information center at 8025 Leavitt Rd.(Rte. 58) in Amherst. or request one by phone at 800.334.1673 and by email at visitors@visitloraincounty.com.

Our online calendar of events is available year round and is continually updated with things to see and do!

What type of events might bring one to Lorain County?

To name just a few...

The Lorain International Festival June 27-29 at Black River Landing, Lorain offering all day live entertainment, children's activities, over 100 ethnic foods and crafts.

The Ohio Scottish Games June 28 at the Lorain County Fairgrounds, Wellington has an array of competitions and demonstrations  to take in...from Highland Dance, heavy athletics to pipes and drums.

The Lorain County Fair August 18-24 at the Lorain County Fairgrounds, Wellington has something for everyone with big name entertainment in the Grandstand, truck pulls, combine derby, animals, rides, exhibits and food...we can never leave out fair food!

All of our events in Lorain County have a unique experience to offer. Start planning your trip to fun today. We have lodging to suit everyone's needs.


Looking forward to a fun-filled summer ahead!

Shop small and score big...

Don Mould's Plantation

Visit Lorain County is a great place to start when looking to shop small and score big this Saturday or any day of the year! Lorain County boasts unique and quality shops to suit anyone on your holiday list. From a walk about Main Street in one of our many eclectic villages and towns, to a country drive to a fantastic out of the way shop that you have yet to discover.

With a simple click of our shopping link you will discover great shopping options. Many having those great deals you are hunting for this weekend and as a bonus, many Main Street Organizations have holiday events kicking off this Saturday making it the perfect day to explore our city centers and enjoy the festivities and shops all a-glow.

While you are out and about you are sure to work up an appetite! You are in luck, you are another click away from a palate pleasing experience. With so many dining options from which to choose, you can plan breakfast, lunch and dinner with ease and maybe a wine tasting in between!

Cork's and Stubby's 

Discover too much for just one day? Thought so! No worries, we have a couple clicks for that too...hotels, bed & breakfasts and lodges throughout the county await.

Small Business Saturday is a great excuse to get out there and shop small in a big way!

Gobble up a local Thanksgiving feast!

Looking for a no muss no fuss scrumptious Thanksgiving Day feast...a few Lorain County restaurants will serve up a great meal with all of the trimmings this Thursday! 

The Oberlin Inn is dishing up their feast by buffet or a served dinner. Seating every half hour between 11 and 4.  The Buffet Feast includes: slow roasted turkey, pork tenderloin with cranberry, sliced roast beef with mushroom sauce, battered fried white fish, 15 traditional side dishes and salad favorites, dessert table. The served meal includes a tossed salad, marshmallow sweet potatoes, herb sage dressing, home-style green beans, rolls and pumpkin pie.

Oberlin Inn reservations required call 440.775.1111.

Or choose The Lube! Quaker Steak & Lube in Sheffield and Vermilion; both are serving a great menu of your holiday favorites buffet style: chef-carved oven roasted turkey, chef-carved slow roasted beef sirloin, honey glazed ham topped w/pineapple, sweet potatoes in butter rum sauce, homemade stuffing, whipped potatoes & gravy, award-winning wings, green bean casserole, shrimp pasta in golden garlic cream sauce,  penne pasta w/bolognese sauce, New England clam chowder, Italian wedding soup, full salad bar, harvest dessert patch featuring pumpkin and pecan pies, and sugar free selections. 

Call for reservations Sheffield: 440.934.9464 Vermilion:440.967.3724

Want to burn off some of that meal with a family activity? Head to Rebman's in Lorain for family bowling from 5 to midnight.

Or take in a movie before or after dinner at the Apollo in Oberlin. Catch Frozen between 1pm and 9:30pm and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire between 12:30pm and 10:15pm.

And at the Lorain Palace Theater, THOR The Dark World is in 3D at 7pm!

Lastly, if you would like to step out and toast your family.... Fort's Tavern in Wellington will be open at 8:30pm. They have a spiced apple martini and 12 Dogs of Christmas Ale on tap.

Click here for a cornucopia of fun! Plenty of events happening over the holiday weekend! 
And if your house is as stuffed as your turkey for the holidays...your problem is solved with nearby lodging! 

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Countdown to Christmas...

Holidays in Lorain County

Twas the month before Christmas and all through the house, everyone was stirring, even the mouse! There's so much to do, presents to buy, cookies to bake, cards to send out and trees to decorate! In fact, there's way more to be done than the average holiday, so let's cut to the chase and get things underway...

First on our list that doesn't pale, is some much needed and very appreciated, “holiday ale!”

So, call up your family and friends (and a designated driver if needed) and enjoy the brews of the season at some of Lorain County's most popular eateries... in fact, Great Lakes famous Christmas Ale is now on tap, along with several other specialty holiday ales at:  Jackalope Lakeside in Lorain;  Churchstreet Bar and Grille and Cork's and Stubby's in Amherst; Quaker Steak and Lube in Sheffield Lake; The Feve and Oberlin Inn in Oberlin, Nemo's Grille in Avon and Moss's Prime Rib and Spaghetti House and Smitty's in Elyria.

But if you're more into wine, then you'll want your sleigh to stop by Paper Moon Vineyards for some homegrown wines and live entertainment, on both Friday and Saturday nights in December, from 6-9pm (until Christmas Eve). They even feature an outdoor heated patio for guests so no need to fret over snow! After all, Benjamin Franklin is the one who said, “Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, fewer tensions and more tolerance.” So be sure to check out some other vineyards including Matus Winery in Wakeman with fire pits, and D and D Smith Winery  who offers free Wi-Fi (for sending those Christmas ecards) in Norwalk. In fact, many of these wine-makers, including Heineman's Winery on Put-in-Bay also offer an amazing selection of wines for purchase online, making holiday gift-giving much more palatable when you need to send something special to your great uncle in Florida!

Amherst Historical Society’s Christmas in the Village

If you truly enjoy sampling the tastes of the holiday season, then be sure to check out Amherst's Christmas Village, sponsored by the Amherst Historical Society. On December 1 and 2 from 2–4pm, you and your entire family can enjoy the sights and delicious smells of Christmas past - 1800s style! Even Santa will be on hand so be sure to bring plenty of film for those cute Facebook photo ops! There's also fabulous bakery from gingerbread cookies to pies on sale, so be sure to bring some “extra dough” and stock up on holiday treats for your kids and house guests. From 4–5pm there will even be Christmas Caroling in St. George's Chapel so feel free to bring your own American Idol voice and sing along!

And, since holiday shopping can be awfully stressful at times then you may need to take a quick break. Feel free to take some time out just for yourself and enjoy a well-earned massage at Kneaded Touch Massage  in Amherst. Literally, reduce your anxiety levels by volumes this holiday season and improve your overall energy too by having an hour long massage. Honestly, you'll leave feeling much more relaxed, refreshed and renewed as you embark on the rest of your “holiday to-do list!” And don't forget, they also offer gift certificate specials that make great stocking stuffers!

Jamie’s Flea Market in South Amherst

Speaking of to-do’s! You may want to make some unique purchases at Jamie’s Flea Market, the largest flea market in Northern Ohio, where hundreds of vendors gather every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am–4pm to display thousands of collectibles. Vendors feature one-of-a-kinds (crafty and homemade wares) and vintage and antique collectibles at rock-bottom prices, even seasonal produce is available for holiday entertaining. So, for that aunt who has everything, this is the perfect solution for solving that holiday gift-giving crisis. Besides, admission is free and with over 200 vendors weekly, you’re bound to find something on your list, even if it’s something for yourself!

And most importantly to mention as we jet-start the Christmas shopping season, is that between Black Friday and Cyber Monday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses nationwide. Saturday, November 24 is now known as Small Business Saturday® and last year, over one hundred million people came together to “Shop Small”  in their communities.... Main Street Amherst is one of those communities rallying support with over 25 businesses, restaurants and shops that are extending their hours this holiday season to give you more time to shop local!  Download your shopping guide and map and head to downtown Amherst on Thursday evenings till 8pm and Sundays from 12–5pm.  You'll  be sure to find unique and treasured items for everyone on your list!

So, if it’s shopping, eating or enjoying a night out with friends, be sure to embrace Lorain County small businesses this holiday season...until we meet again!

Fourth of July weekend is upon us! Time for picnics, backyard barbeque's, family and friends, and of course FIREWORKS! To make sure you get the most out of your holiday weekend we’ve put together a listing of all the local favorite attractions and their weekend plans.

Friday, July 1^st

There is no better way to celebrate American culture then by gathering the family for exciting evening of baseball! The Lake Erie Crushers take to their home field for a thrilling challenge against the Gateway Grizzlies. The game throws its first pitch at 7:00pm and will conclude the evening with a fireworks display overlooking the field.  With general admission starting at $6 this is an American classic the whole family can enjoy.  For ticket information call 440-934-3636.

Saturday, July 2^nd

The Lorain County Speedway is getting ready to light up the track and the sky! Races begin at 7:00pm with the grandstands opening at 3:00pm.  Experience a rush of excitement from this fast pace event then relax and celebrate Independence Day weekend with fireworks. For ticket information call 440-986-223.

Sunday, July 3^rd

The city of Oberlin is welcoming the fourth with a display of light and color that is sure to brighten everyone’s evening.  Fireworks will be displayed at the Oberlin Recreation Complex on Hamilton Street just past Splash Zone. This American favorite will start at dusk. In the case of bad weather, fireworks will be moved to Monday.

Add music to your weekend by visiting the Port Fest at the Black River Landing in Lorain.  The Port Fest starts at 10am on Sunday with a canoe/kayak race.  Spend the rest of the day enjoying the car show, crafts, great food, and games for kids. Music for the evening includes The Drifters (Motown) at 8pm and The Rat Pack (Frank, Dean, and Sammy) at 9pm. Finally, the Black River Landing provides a unique firework show starting at 10:00pm.

Looking for great family fun? The North Ridgeville Parks and Recreation Department is having a Party in the Park! The party is set to occur at South Central Park starting at 5:30pm, and will have food concessions with a full menu. Free family activities including live music, face painting, magic shows and more will occur from 6 to 8:30pm. The party will conclude with a fireworks display at dusk, provided by the North Ridgeville Fire Department. 

ArtsFest is a free outdoor festival celebrating the arts in Northeast Ohio.  The event will take place at Miller Road Park in Avon Lake, starting at 2:00pm. Artists and vendors from the area will be on hand to showcase and sell their art, and there is live music and free entertainment throughout the day. The day ends with a spectacular fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day, so be sure to stay through the end of the evening!

Wellington adds more excitement to Independence weekend with two days of family festivities.  Starting on Sunday evening head over to the town hall lawn for the Patriots community Band Concert and Ice Cream Social.  Stick around for fireworks at the fairgrounds beginning at dusk. 

Monday, July 4^th

Wellington continues their celebrations on July Fourth with food, games, and family activities starting at 11:30am. The celebration in the park will feature the area’s largest Independence Day Parade starting at 3pm. Grab a spot along the curb of South Main Street and experience this patriotic event.

Cedar Point will celebrate the Fourth with two nights of fireworks and other events. 

Happy Independence Day!

Summer Spirits

North central Ohio is heating up! What better way to enjoy our beautiful summers than popping open a bottle of Lorain County’s finest wine? With over 200 acres of warm land devoted to growing Ohio grapes, north central Ohio is the perfect place to find peace and tranquility among the vineyards. Combined, local wineries feature 80 different classic and signature labels including a large range of dry and sweet wines. They offer culinary events, wine tastings and programs dedicated to explaining Ohio’s history in the art of wine.

The following wineries are located on or just-off the Back Roads and Beaches bike and multi-sport route. All are welcoming to cyclists and the general public alike.

Located just south of beautiful Lake Erie in Avon Lake is John Christ Winery. With over 60 years experience John Christ wine is produced and bottled on-site. Several upcoming events will feature their award-winning wine. John Christ is preparing to cookout this June at their Steak Grill on Saturday the 18th at 6:30. There will be live music entertainment and tastings of their many different varieties of reds and whites. For summer event listings, location, hours, and contact information visit http://www.johnchristwine.com/.

Also hidden within Avon Lake is the third-generation Klingshirn Winery. Devoted to presenting home- grown quality grapes and award-winning wines, the Klingshirn Winery staff is getting ready for their summer steak cookout series. The cookout dates include July 22nd and August 26th from 5:30–8pm. Reservations are required and can be made by phone or email. For more information on Klingshirn Winery please visit their website http://www.klingshirnwine.com/.

Matus Winery rests on the west side of Lorain County. Located on the 75 year-old Matus Farm, this vineyard was designed for countryside relaxation. With happy-hour featured every Thursday from 5–9pm, Matus is the perfect place to unwind. On Saturday, June 18th Matus will be welcoming friends for a Steak Fry at 6pm. The Steak Fry will include live entertainment by Strukely and Cole at 8pm. For event details and pricing visit their website at http://www.matuswinery.us/. Their website also contains contact information and hour listings.

Committed to culture and the environment, Vermilion Valley Vineyards provides not only quality wine but educational wine tasting and explanations of the wines of Ohio. The winery includes beautiful views of the Vermilion Valley, tasting room, covered patio and pond-side fire pit. You may consider preparing your own picnic meal at Vermilion Valley’s tables and grills installed around the pond. Meats and accompaniments are available, including pick-it-yourself sweet corn, salad fixings, and blueberries and other fruits in season. Vermilion Valley also features a full menu of appetizers, sandwiches, pizza, salads and desserts from 5–10pm. Upcoming musical events at VVV include Dann and Lilly, featured on June 10th and Men of Steele on the 11th. Mark your calendars now for their upcoming Seafood Grill on July 2. For more details and information about Vermilion Valley Vineyards visit http://www.vermilionvalleyvineyards.com/.

Paper Moon is a newer addition to north central Ohio’s list of vineyards. They’re preparing for a summer full of musical weekends, with live bands and entertainment. Also, beginning this month — the Second Saturday Supper-Steak Fry. Every second Saturday starting June through August, from 5–8pm, join Paper Moon Vineyards for outdoor grilling fun. Paper Moon Winery includes a regular menu of paninis, flat bread pizzas, ciabatta bread with oil, cheese plates, hummus and more. For more details or vineyard information on Paper Moon visit http://www.papermoonvineyards.com/.

Look for all your favorite wining and dining locations at the Back Roads and Beaches 5K Run Wine and Dine event on Saturday August 20th starting at 5pm. The cost to compete is $20 if registered by August 11th. Come out to Oberlin and enjoy this unique course traveling through Oberlin’s friendly community and get the opportunity to taste from local vineyards. Following the 5k run, participants, their family and friends, and the general public can enjoy great local food, wine and live musical entertainment outside in the gardens of the Oberlin Inn. For more information visit http://www.visitloraincounty.com/BRaB5K.

Let’s raise a glass to another season of great friends and great wine!

Don’t Let The Winter Weather Keep You From Breaking A Sweat

While hibernating by a cozy fire is seemingly always tempting, for those of us who can’t stand being indoors for an extended period of time, we are lucky to live in a county full of glorious winter sports activities. Make sure to dress for the elements and bring plenty of water if you’re looking to get a workout from any of these. No worries about nominal snow—most of these activities will take place no matter what!

Yes, it’s true—snowshoeing is quickly becoming one of the most popular winter sports activities in the world! Lorain County Metro Parks (LCMP) generously offers guided snowshoe hikes and free snowshoe rental days at various locations. Snowshoeing has been around for thousands of years and is now considered a winter sport—you can burn hundreds of calories in an hour and improve your cardio fitness level! For you first-timers, check out Snowshoe Magazine’s First-Timer’s Guide. Check the LCMP website for dates and times or go out on your own! Also, don’t miss the family-oriented Snowshoeing Games at Lakeview Park on January 22. 

Icicles at Vermilion River Reservation

LCMP also offers guided hikes throughout the season. Learn about the habits of winter animals in the area or gaze at Mill Hollow’s larger than life icicles while you exercise. For a chance of scenery, hike at Common Ground – The Cindy Nord Center for Renewal. This gorgeous retreat is the ideal place to refresh your muscles surrounded by calming, beautiful forestry.

No need to travel to Colorado to ski, get your cross-country skiing fix right here in Lorain County! North Coast Inland Trail, known as the skinniest park of the LCMP, is perfect for cross-country skiers with its long straight-aways from Elyria to Kipton. The Bridgeway Trail, another LCMP site starts at Day's Dam in Lorain and ends at the High Meadows picnic area in Elyria. The expansive 4-1/2 mile trail passes through meadows and forest groves, under bridges and over the treetops on a 1000-foot bridge that crosses the river in two places.

Findley State Park offers snowshoeing and skiing, as well, but adds ice skating, ice fishing and sledding hills to their repertoire. Findley’s Annual Winter Hike (February 5) is a favorite among locals.

Buckeye Trail at Findley State Park, Wellington

Speaking of sledding…rumor has it, Lorain County is home to some of the best hills around! Sledding is a great adrenaline rush for kids and adults. Famous sledding hills in the area include Vermilion River Reservation, Carlisle Reservation, Cascade Park in Elyria, behind Philips Gym in Oberlin, South Central Park in North Ridgeville or behind Golden Acres Nursing Home in Amherst. Do you have the perfect hill you visit each year? Comment below and let us know!

Want the winter recreation without the frozen toes and long-underwear layers? Indoor ice skating at North Park Complex Ice Arena may be your best bet. Don’t hesitate if you’re a new ice skater—there are plenty of instructional classes offered and Open Skate opportunities to practice. If summer can’t come soon enough, indoor kayak lessons at Splash Zone in Oberlin are sure to get your fix. 
We can’t get enough photos of you getting active in Lorain County! Send photos with description, location and name of photographer to visitors@visitloraincounty.com.

Discover a new wintertime adventure just for you—view Visit Lorain County’s Event Calendar!
Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you out enjoying the brisk winter weather!

Lorain County Fair continues through Sunday

The weather forecast for Wellington is gorgeous this weekend, perfect for a trip to the Lorain County Fair! Scheduled entertainment throughout the weekend includes NTPA Tractor Pull on Friday night, Combine Derby/Pick-up Truck Derby Saturday night and Demolition Derby on Sunday night. If your looking for something a little different, there is a full schedule of entertainment all day, each day. Entertainment includes livestock auctions, pie and cookie baking contests, live music, fiddle contest, motocross racing and much more. And don't forget to stop by our booth in building 23 to ask for your copy of the Lake Erie Access Guide! Here are some scenes from our visit to the Fair today.

June Festivals in Lorain County

Summer has finally hit Lorain County! For many among us that means funnel cakes and ferris wheels. And make no mistake, there'll be plenty of those. But the county is also known for its more unique festivals and bazaars! Take a look at what's happening in June alone:

• June 3rd, Grand Pacific Junction First Thursday: Grand Pacific Junction is a wonderfully unique shopping area in Olmsted Falls, and what better time to take advantage of special sales and discounts than at the First Thursday festival. Also for your enjoyment: performances by local musicians and performers, food and refreshments, local crafters and vendors. This event is free. 440.235.1441. 

• June 5th, Balloon Fest 2010: For the third year running, Wellington has decided to kick off the summer with a truly amazing hot air balloon display. Sponsored by the Lorain County on Aging and the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, this event allows you to closely inspect the balloons before the evening's take-off. Additionally, the festival will feature live entertainment, kids' games, a variety of food and beverage, local crafts and vendors, and exhibits and demonstrations of many kinds. Just $5 per car.

• June 5th - 6th, Columbia Antique Gas Engine Show and Flea Market: If you've a knack for history and/or mechanics, this festival is a wonderful way to learn and have some fun at the same time. Columbia Township Park will be filled with engine exhibitors, friendly competitions, and flea market and craft vendors. 440.236.9053.

• June 5th, Make-A-Splash Beach Party: One might say that the Make-A-Splash Beach Party at Lakeview Park is Lorain County's official summer kick-off. Activities will include a demonstration by the totally amazing Holy Trinity Unicycle Club, story time in the Rose Cafe, crafts, games, face painting, and much more. The rockin' G-Force Revue, composed of three sisters (none of whom are older than 11!), will be headlining the event. And as if you need another reason to join the fun, all who attend this party will receive free admission to that evening's Ironmen baseball game at Pipe Yard Stadium. Summer's here, indeed! 440.244.1192.

• June 17th, Third Thursday in Vermilion - Music, Flowers,  and a Sunset: Every third Thursday of the summer months, downtown Vermilion's historic Harbourtown is flooded with awesome live music. Residents and out-of-towners alike come downtown to browse the unique shops and enjoy the vibrant lakeside atmosphere.

• June 18th - 19th, Juneteenth in Oberlin: Celebrate a day commemorating the end of slavery by visiting Oberlin, a town with a large historical role in abolition and the Civil War. The theme of this year's Juneteenth celebration is "1860: Oberlin on the Eve of War." Festivities begin on Friday with a trolley tour around Oberlin and ends on Saturday with a concert by "La Bamba" in Tappan Square. Other attractions include a parade, various vendors, give-a-ways, demonstrations, reenactments and performances.

• June 18th - 19th, Juneteenth Celebration in Lorain: The city of Lorain is hosting their own Juneteenth Celebration Weekend at Harrison Cultural Community Centre. Friday night's feature is Gospel Night featuring numerous talented singers and praise dancers. The parade sets out on Saturday at 11:30 am. Stop by on either day for fun games, unique vendors, and delicious food.

• June 18th - 20th, Festival of the Fish: 2010 marks the 44th year of this terrific lakeside Festival. For one weekend every summer Vermilion's Victory Park is filled with games, food, and vendors. The festival's main events include a lighted boat parade, a sand castle building contest, crazy craft races, and a queen's pageant. Admission to this weekend of beachy fun is free. 440.967-4477.

• June 18th - 20th, Avon Heritage Duct Tape Festival: One of Lorain County's more quirky festivals (one of it's more bizarre bazaars...?), the Duct Tape Festival is trippin' back to the 60s this year with the theme, "Peace, Love, & Duct Tape." Stop by Veterans Memorial Park for food, games, vendors, rides, performances and, of course, duct tape crafts, all weekend long. Admission and parking are free. 866.818.1116.

• June 25th - 26th, Ohio Scottish Games: Each summer, Lorain County hosts the state's premier (only?) Scottish games. The festivities begin on Friday night with a BBQ dinner and authentic highland music. But for the athletes, the camaraderie is short-lived; on Saturday the games begin. 440.835.9794.

• June 25th - 27th, Lorain International Festival and Bazaar: One of the county's biggest summer events, the Lorain International Festival & Bazaar is a wildly fun weekend meant to commemorate and celebrate the city's diverse ethnic heritage. This year, the spotlight is on Lorain's vibrant Hungarian community. Black River Landing will be bursting with over 40 ethnic food vendors, myriad cultural arts & crafts, and exciting entertainment. The perfect combination of celebration, education, and pure fun.

• June 25 - 27th, Columbia Homecoming Festival: Join Columbia Township in celebrating their town's history and heritage. Festivities will include all kinds of live entertainment, delicious foods, a car show, 5 K Run & In-line Skate, Parade, Fireworks, and a whole lot more. And to all the young ladies in the county, don't forget about the Miss Liberty Pageant!

• June 26th, Historic Summerfare Saturday: For the 15th year in a row, Exchange Place Park in Vermilion is stepping back in history. Come view a fortune's worth of antiques and collectibles, partake in an "Architectural Mystery Hunt," gawk at the Lake Shore Corvette Show, or simply enjoy downtown Harbour Town. 440.967.4262.

• June 26th, Oberlin Chalk Walk: Get in touch with your creative side at Oberlin's annual chalk walk. Participants are given ample chalk free of charge and instructed to express themselves on the sidewalks of downtown Oberlin, while professional artists work on their own masterpieces. Free and open to the public!

For more information on summer festivals and events around Lorain County, check out the Visit Lorain County website, become a fan of our Facebook Page, follow us on Twitter, or call the office at (440) 984-5282. Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

Get Active in Lorain County-Indoor and Outdoor Recreation for the Whole Family

Looking for some sports action this summer? Lorain County has a large number of exciting sports venues and events perfect for spectators and athletes alike.

• Baseball: No offense to a certain professional baseball club just east of Lorain County, but there's no telling what the summer will be like as far as Major League Baseball is concerned. Luckily, there are other options:

• Lake Erie Crushers: In their first year as the Frontier League's newest expansion team, the Lake Erie Crushers beat out twelve teams from all around the Midwest to win the League's championship. All signs point to an equally successful second season. The Crushers play at the new All Pro Freight Stadium in Avon. Opening night is May 21! Click here for a complete schedule.

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• Lorain County Ironmen: The Lorain County Ironmen compete in the Prospect League, a Midwest summer league for the region's top collegiate players looking to gain experience and simulate professional baseball life. The Ironmen play at the Pipe Yard Stadium in Lorain. Click here for a complete schedule. Named after U.S. Steel, the Pipe Yard also hosts other local and regional ball teams throughout the season, including Oberlin College and local high school teams.

• Triathlons: Thanks to Lake Erie and its beautiful beaches, Lorain County is an ideal location for summer triathlons.

• 24th Annual Summer Spring Triathlon/Duathlon, Lakeview Park: Triathlon - 1/4-mile swim, 14.3-mile bike, 5K run. Duathlon - 5K run, 14.3-mi bike, 5K run. Click here for details and registration. (NCN Racing)
• 5th Annual Findley Lake Triathlon/Duathlon, Findley State Park: Triathlon - 1/4-mile swim, 14.3-mile bike, 5K run. Duathlon - 5K trail run, 14.3-mile bike, 5K trail run. Click here for details and registration. (NCN Racing)
• Vermilion Harbor Triathlon/Duathlon, Linwood Park: Spring Triathlon - 750m swim/5K run, 20K bike, 5K run. Olympic Triathlon - 1500m swim/5K run, 40K bike, 10K run. Click here for details and registration. (HFP Racing)
  
  
  
  
• Running Races: Not into the whole triathlon thing? Here are some races that don't require you to get wet:
  
  

• Fish Festival 5K Race and One Mile Walk: Located in Vermilion during the Festival of the Fish, this race will take place June 19th. Details here.
• 7th Annual Park-2-Park Half Marathon & 5K: June 20th at the French Creek Nature Center in Sheffield. (NCN Racing)
• 5th Annual Columbia Station Half Marathon Run & Inline Skate: June 27th, beginning at Copopa Elementary School in Columbia Station. (NCN Racing)

• Back Roads and Beaches Multi-Sport Route: If you're training for one of these triathlons, or just enjoy challenging and picturesque bikes rides through the countryside, we encourage you to utilize the award-winning Back Roads and Beaches Multi-Sport Route. The route features scenic, low-traffic roads and bike paths that lead riders through some of Ohio's best landscape, while also highlighting some of the area's most relevant history, culture and arts and cutting edge environmental initiatives. Click here for a map of the route.

• Vermilion-Lorain Water Trail: Beginning along the shale cliffs of the Vermilion River in Brownhelm Township, the 27-mile paddle trail winds down the river before entering Lake Erie in Vermilion. Once in open water, the trail heads east and follows the shoreline to Lorain where it enters the Black River. Heading upstream, paddlers will pass the U.S. Steel Mill before the trail ends at the Bur Oak Area of the Black River Reservation. Different segments of the water trail cater to different experience levels. Click here for a map.

• Lakeview Park: Comprised of 20 acres of gorgeous, beachfront property, Lakeview Park is one of the city's most well-known summer recreation areas. The park has ample accommodations for volleyball, lawn bowling, and of course, swimming. Visitors often remark on the Historic Rose Garden and the view of the Lorain Lighthouse. In addition to triathlons, Lakeview also hosts the East/West Volleyball Open, July 24-25th.

• Findley State Park: This popular state park is located in southern Lorain County south of the historic Village of Wellington on State Route 58. Over 900 acres of woodland are available year round for hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing, kayaking, paddleboating, and camping enjoyment. In addition, Findley is equipped for disc golf and volleyball. On June 19th, bring the kids on out for the park's Youth Fishing Derby.

• Oberlin College: Nearby Oberlin College boasts an impressive array of athletic facilities, including the Phillips Recreation Center. Phillips and the surrounding grounds accommodate athletes interested in tennis, soccer, baseball, basketball, and swimming. For more information on the facilities available and usage restrictions, visit the Oberlin College Athletics website.

• Oberlin Splash Zone: Splash Zone, Oberlin's aquatic complex, consists of an 8-lane indoor pool, a tot lagoon, a large outside pool with two 24 ft. water slides and other water toys, a playground, a fitness room, an aerobics room and a party space. As of fall 2009, Splash Zone introduces its new field house, containing four basketball/volleyball courts and a three-lane walking track.

• Golf: The county features several quality courses including:

• Bob-O-Link Golf Course: 36 relatively flat and well-kept holes in Avon.
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  Columbia Hills Country Club: A private country club with 18 challenging holes.
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  Forest Hills Golf Course: An intermediate course in Elyria maintained by the Metro-Parks, featuring the "most difficult hole in Lorain County, number 7." Set up a tee time online here.

For rainy days:

• Lorain Sports Hall of Fame: Interested in the history of sports in Lorain? The Lorain Sports Hall of Fame is dedicated to the preservation and display of Lorain'f rich sporting history. Check out the website for details and hours.

• Rebman Recreation: 48 lanes perfect for open bowling, league bowling, tournaments, birthday parties and other special events. Rebman Recreation is located on Oberlin Road in Lorain.

For more information on sporting opportunities in Lorain County, check out the Visit Lorain County website and check our online events calendar for newly added sports events. To plan a sporting event in the county, visit our sports marketing page.

To request an Adventure and Visitors Info Guide to Lorain County, click here or call 1.800.334.1673.

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Visit Lorain County's Guide to Holiday Shopping

Holiday shopping isn’t always easy. That’s why we at Visit Lorain County are providing a helping hand to get you started finding the coolest, unique gifts, and enjoy your Holiday season.

First, mark your calender; a savvy holiday shopper wouldn’t miss these fun and festive shopping events:

• Through December 11th, check out the Winter Fine Art & Craft Exhibit & Sale at Stocker Arts Center on the Lorain County Community College Campus, featuring fine arts and crafts by regional artists and designers.
  


• December 4th-6th, visit Avon’s French Creek District for the 30th Annual Christmas Candlelight Walk. Shop for antiques, crafts, and gifts, then relax and enjoy some caroling, a craft show, a tree lighting ceremony, and a visit from Father Christmas himself.
  


• On December 5th, you’re going to have to allot your time carefully. Three special shopping events can’t be missed:
  
  
• Holiday on the Ridge in North Ridgeville: all-day shopping, craft shows, a tree lighting, and live nativity and theater performances at the Old Towne Hall.
  


• Jamie’s Annual Christmas Special: 200 inside vendors, free pictures with Santa Claus and hourly gift certificate drawings.
  


• Don Mould’s Holiday Open House: Free refreshments, great deals, and a visit from Kris Kringle, available at both the North Ridgeville and Amherst locations.

Don Mould’s

And for that friend or family member who has everything, might we recommend some unique gift ideas off the beaten path? Unless you’re a big fan of overcrowded malls, long lines, and jam-packed parking lots, why not try some of these ideas:

• Pick up a bottle of wine or a gift basket from one of Lorain County’s many local wineries.
  
  
  


• Browse the pottery, jewelry, and glass, wood, and metal crafts—made by local artists—at Oberlin’s Ginko Gallery.
  
  


• Outfit your family’s nature-lover with outing gear, outerwear, fishing supplies, and hunting equipment at Molnar Outdoor.
  

• Stop by Petitti’s Garden Center for Holiday florals, decorations, gardening and other home gifts.
  

• Shop the extensive wine cellar and the broad selection of gourmet sauces & food, antiques, and furniture at the Tree House Gallery and Tea Room in Avon (treat yourself to a nice lunch while you’re there).
  
  
  
  


• Get ready for baseball season with Lake Erie Crushers tickets and merchandise.
  
  
  
  
• Pick up great Lorain Lighthouse gifts at the Black River Historical Society’s Moore House Museum gift shop.
  


• Invite a friend to a performance at Lorain County Community College’s Stocker Arts Center. Check out their schedule here.
  


• Visit The Days of Yore Herb & Flower Farm in Wellington for home décor, gourmet foods, bath & body gifts, and assorted candles.
  


• Give the gift of relaxation with a spa package or spa-related gift from The Kneaded Touch in Amherst.
  


• For that art enthusiast you know, make a special trip to FAVA in Oberlin for original works of contemporary art, or to the Art Gallery at Amherst’s Sandstone Center.

But we’re willing to bet that even with all these options, you’re still not going to be done. So stumble upon some unique gift ideas of your own by visiting the area’s quaint Main Street shopping districts.

• Main Street Wellington
  


• Main Street Amherst
  


• Main Street Oberlin
  


• Main Street Vermilion
  

For more information on all the varied types of Holiday happenings in Lorain County this season, take a look at our Calender of Events. Visit Lorain County would like to wish you and your family a happy and safe Holiday season!

For more information about Visit Lorain County, stop by our Tourist Information Center at 8025 Leavitt Road, Amherst, OH 44001, call us at (440) 984-5282, visit our website, follow us on Twitter, or become a fan on Facebook.